Overview
Thinking about a quick getaway with your friends or significant other to Nashville, Tennessee? Well, we’ve got you covered. Famous for its rich music history, especially country music, Nashville is home to numerous music venues, museums, and attractions, including the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Ryman Auditorium, and the Grand Ole Opry. Besides its music scene, you can enjoy a wide range of cultural and recreational activities and indulge in some of the city’s famous Southern cuisine. Hot chicken, biscuits, and barbecue anyone?
When visiting downtown Nashville, you can’t help but notice the number of bachelorette parties going on. It’s true, there is no shortage of barhopping, shopping, great food, and cool activities in Nashville to help you make the best of your getaway!
Getting There and Around
If you live in the southern region of the U.S., you may want to drive to Nashville; otherwise, you will fly into the Nashville International Airport (BNA), located 8 miles east of downtown. All major U.S. airlines provide service in and out of BNA.
Nashville is best explored by car, but there are several public transportation options such as the MTA bus system and the Music City Circuit, a free bus service that runs through downtown Nashville. Biking and walking are also great ways to explore the city’s neighborhoods. You can also use taxis and rideshares to get around if you don’t want to rent a car.
Accommodations
| $$$$ | The Joseph – Part of the Marriott hotel group, but it very much has the look and feel of a luxury boutique hotel. Read our hotel review here. |
| $$$$ | The Hermitage – Timeless elegance; opened in 1910 |
| $$$$ | Four Seasons Hotel – Refined luxury; views of the Cumberland River and Riverfront Park |
| $$$ | Kimpton Aertson– Boutique hotel located near mid-town; Part of the IGH hotel group |
| $$$ | Loews Vanderbilt – Located in the west end, near Vanderbilt University |
| $$$ | Renaissance Hotel – Marriott hotel located 5 minutes walk from the convention center |
| $-$$ | Sonesta Nashville Airport, Clarion Hotel Downtown, Best Western Suites near Opryland |
| Hotels near the airport tend to be less expensive. The Sonesta is a little higher priced than others in the area, but it’s a nice hotel. The Clarion location is great if you are attending a Tennessee Titan football game at the Nissan Stadium. The Best Western offers a free shuttle service to downtown Nashville. |
Where to Eat
There are so many lovely places to eat in Nashville, you will want to try them all during your getaway vacation! In any case, we hope these selections will give you some ideas to whet your appetite!
If you want to experience Nashville’s famous spicy hot chicken, try Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack or Hattie B’s Hot Chicken. Both establishments have a couple of locations, but if you want to conduct a taste test, head over to the Assembly Hall in downtown Nashville and order from both places! Don’t forget your collard greens and mac and cheese. And, while you’re there, be sure to grab a scoop or two from Hattie Jane’s Creamery. Yummy!
The Catbird Seat: Enjoy a unique dining experience around a 22-seat U-shaped counter, with the kitchen in the middle. The menu changes seasonally. Reservations required.
Husk: Southern cuisine with a farm-to-table philosophy, using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes like shrimp and grits and roasted bone marrow. Located in the heart of downtown Nashville. Reservations recommended.
Rolf and Daughters: This industrial-chic restaurant in Germantown offers a menu of contemporary American dishes with an Italian influence. Shareable plates. Reservations recommended.
Butcher & Bee: This is a popular spot in East Nashville. You will find creative sandwiches made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, as well as salads and shareable plates. The menu is always changing.
What to Do in the Evening
- The Stage on Broadway: This iconic honky-tonk is a popular spot for live country music, with multiple floors and bars to explore.
- Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge: Another famous honky-tonk, Tootsie’s is located right across from the Ryman Auditorium and has been a Nashville institution since the 1960s. Opens at 9:30 a.m. so no need to wait until the evening!
- The Bluebird Cafe: This intimate music venue is known for its songwriter’s nights, where up-and-coming musicians perform their original songs. In operation for more than 40 years.
- The Basement East: This popular East Nashville venue hosts a variety of live music acts, from indie rock to hip-hop.
- Acme Feed & Seed: Where the locals go. The multi-level venue in downtown Nashville features a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city skyline, as well as live music and an elevated Southern-inspired menu.
- The Patterson House: A speakeasy-style cocktail bar located in Midtown. Offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere with expertly crafted drinks. No reservations are accepted.
- Pinewood Social: This trendy spot in the Gulch offers a variety of activities, including bowling, karaoke, and an outdoor pool, as well as a full bar and restaurant.
Whether you’re looking to dance through the night to live music or enjoy a quiet cocktail with friends, there are plenty of options for a fun-filled and memorable Nashville getaway night out.
Activities
- Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the history of country music and see memorabilia from some of its biggest stars.
- Check out other music museums such as Johnny Cash and Pasty Cline.
- Visit the world-famous Grand Ole Opry to hear a few legends as well as new artists.
- Take a tour of the Ryman Auditorium, the former home of the Grand Ole Opry, and a must-visit for any music lover.
- Stroll through the vibrant neighborhoods of East Nashville and 12 South, where you’ll find local boutiques, art galleries, and trendy restaurants.
Tips for Visiting Nashville
- Nashville is a popular tourist destination, so be sure to book your accommodations and activities in advance.
- Be prepared for long lines and crowds at popular attractions such as the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum and the Ryman Auditorium.
- Bring comfortable shoes as Nashville is a very walkable city.
- Be respectful of the local culture and customs, and remember to tip generously at restaurants and bars.
- Don’t forget to try some of the city’s famous hot chicken and biscuits, and wash it down with a cold glass of sweet tea or a local craft beer.
Nashville has something for everyone, be it a girls’ weekend or a quick getaway with your significant other. The city has a lot of energy, amazing restaurants and bars, and a great music scene. You won’t be disappointed!
Comments are closed.